Best 20 things to do in Chicago, United States

Welcome to the Windy City, where our list of the best 20 things to do in Chicago is as varied and colorful as the city itself. Start your adventure with a sunset stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk, because nothing says romance like avoiding cyclists whizzing past you. Feeling peckish? Head to the veritable heaven of deep-dish pizza joints and indulge in a cheesy, saucy delight that solves any existential crisis. Finally, no trip to Chicago would be complete without immersing yourself in our world-renowned blues scene, where you can dance the night away and pretend you have rhythm. Enjoy your time in the vibrant city that effortlessly merges Midwestern charm with big-city attitude!

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1. The Chicago Theatre

4.7 (7667)

175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA

Welcome to The Chicago Theatre, the iconic arched beauty nestled in the heart of the Windy City! This majestic landmark stands tall and proud, like a determined giraffe trying to peek into the nearby Art Institute. Don't be fooled by its grandeur; it's not just a pretty face, but also the place to witness extraordinary performances that tickle your funny bone and make your heart sing louder than a Cubs fan during a winning streak. Step inside, and let the laughter and applause sweep you away, like a gust of wind that just can't resist joining the fun.

www.msg.com

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2. Cloud Gate (The Bean)

4.8 (25788)

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, USA

Ah, welcome to the land of the Windy City, where steel meets beans and architectural quirkiness abounds. Behold Cloud Gate, affectionately known as "The Bean," a colossal sculpture that makes even kaleidoscopes envious. With its shiny surface that reflects like an overachieving mirror, this masterpiece creates a glorious illusion where you can simultaneously admire the skyline, take a selfie, and check if that spinach from lunch is still lingering in your teeth. A place where art meets the technological magic of Cloud Computing, this bean-shaped wonder will leave you saying "Chicago, you really know how to keep things a-peeling!"

www.cityofchicago.org

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3. Wrigley Field

4.8 (30541)

1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613, USA

Welcome to Wrigley Field, where time seems to have taken a leisurely stroll and spilled nostalgia all over the ballpark. Here, feel like a time traveler as you witness the ivy-covered outfield walls, a peculiar quirk that proves green thumbs extend their reach even into the realm of professional sports. The charm of the world's second-oldest ballpark resides in the "Wrigleyvian" atmosphere, where the deep-dish pizzas are second to none, but the Cubs' curse still looms with a comical wink.

chicago.cubs.mlb.com

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4. Millennium Park

Millennium Park, Chicago, IL, USA

Welcome to Millennium Park, Chicago's ultimate playground for grown-ups! Prepare to be dazzled by a multitude of art installations, from the iconic reflective-bean sculpture (AKA "The Bean") that has singlehandedly turned selfie-taking into an Olympic sport, to the whimsical Crown Fountain, where spitting gargoyles and questionable face expressions come together in a hilarious water show. And don't you dare leave without catching a concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where the grass is always greener and the sound system is loud enough to drown out your aunt's questionable dance moves.

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5. Lincoln Park Conservatory

4.8 (3019)

2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

Nestled in the heart of Chicago lies a delightful oasis known as the Lincoln Park Conservatory, where plants are proudly sheltered from the notorious wind gusts that make many hairdos wilt. Step into this botanical sanctuary to marvel at an impressive collection of exotic greenery, where even the prickly cacti seem oddly friendly, and the ferns wave their fronds in welcome. Prepare for a sensory overload as the Conservatory entices you with its whimsical aromas, vibrant colors, and the occasional leaf that mischievously tickles your nose.

lincolnparkconservancy.org

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6. John Hancock Center

4.7 (17853)

875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Welcome to the John Hancock Center, a skyscraper that stands tall, signaling to the world that Chicago isn't just the hometown of deep dish pizza and Michael Jordan. With its sleek design and towering presence, this architectural marvel is essentially the Beyoncé of buildings - it demands attention. Want to feel like Jack topping the world on the Titanic? Take a ride up the elevator and enjoy the breathtaking view, just make sure to secure your belongings, because losing a hat up there is basically saying goodbye forever.

875northmichiganavenue.com

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7. Chicago Riverwalk

5 (9)

Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, IL, USA

Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk, a delightful stretch of urban paradise where you can embrace your inner relaxation and the occasional kamikaze encounter with a rogue seagull. The Riverwalk not only offers stunning views of the Windy City's skyscrapers, but also serves as a front-row seat to witness locals expertly juggling their coffees while maneuvering through hordes of tourists on rented Segways. So, grab your favorite pair of comfy shoes and prepare for a leisurely stroll filled with more breathtaking architecture than your budget Airbnb could ever dream of.

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8. Adler Planetarium

4.3 (1789)

1300 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Nestled along Chicago's stunning shoreline, the Adler Planetarium is a celestial wonderland that is, thankfully, much easier to navigate than actual outer space. Prepare yourself for a galactic adventure as you step into the universe-themed building, which looks like it's trying to send Morse code messages to passing UFOs. Inside, you'll discover mind-boggling exhibits that might make you question the existence of life on Earth, but rest assured, they have a café just in case your brain needs a cosmic cappuccino break.

www.adlerplanetarium.org

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9. Graffiti Murals in Pilsen

3.5 (2)

1911 S Sangamon St, Chicago, IL 60608, USA

Welcome to Pilsen, Chicago's vibrant neighborhood that takes street art to a whole new level with its dazzling array of graffiti murals! As you explore the colorful maze of its streets, be prepared for an eyeful of mind-boggling artwork that could make Picasso's eyebrows raise. These masterpieces are like rebellious art ninjas, stealthily overtaking buildings and dumpsters, leaving no blank wall unmarked – a visual feast that will make you feel like you've stumbled into an urban comic book explosion.

www.muralpark.com

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10. Navy Pier

4.6 (67251)

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Welcome to Navy Pier, Chicago's beloved amusement park and tourist attraction, where you can experience every emotion on the color spectrum - from sheer joy to queasy green! Brace yourselves for a sheer multitude of activities that'll test your decision-making skills faster than a broken L train. Plus, get ready to consume more fried dough and cotton candy than any human should in a day, because calorie counting is a crime punishable by roller coaster rides here!

www.navypier.org

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11. Field Museum of Natural History

4.7 (22035)

1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Welcome to the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, where history buffs and dinosaur enthusiasts unite! Prepare to embark on a journey through time and witness more animal specimens than Noah's Ark had passengers. From towering T-Rex skeletons to the latest fashion trends of ancient Egyptian mummies, this museum has it all for those seeking a dose of humor, wrapped in a cloak of knowledge.

www.fieldmuseum.org

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12. The Art Institute of Chicago

4.8 (29218)

111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

Welcome to The Art Institute of Chicago, where art and culture collide like clumsy tourists at a buffet! Brace yourself for an artistic escapade that will leave you questioning whether you've stumbled into a museum or an avant-garde funhouse. With a collection that can make even the most cultured connoisseurs cock an eyebrow in bewilderment, this iconic institute promises surprises at every turn. Marvel at the museum's unique architecture, a blend of elegance and creative chaos that might just have you confusing exhibits with art installations. Explore the vast halls filled with masterpieces from around the world, where you can appreciate everything from Renaissance paintings to contemporary works that'll make you say, "Okay, that's just a big canvas of squiggles, but hey, I won't pretend to get it!" Prepare to experience an overload of creativity that might leave you pondering the meaning of life, or at least questioning why that giant slab of metal is considered art. But fear not, weary art admirers! When hunger strikes, take a break at one of the museum's eateries where you can refuel and discuss which abstract sculpture looked disappointingly like a lost sock. So, grab your selfie stick and readiness to be puzzled, because The Art Institute of Chicago is here to lead you on a bewildering journey through the unpredictable world of art. Guaranteed to make you laugh, think, and maybe even scratch your head in utter confusion!

www.artic.edu

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13. Buckingham Fountain

4.7 (14334)

301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Ah, Buckingham Fountain in Chicago is like a majestic water show that even Mother Nature would be envious of! Picture this: a gargantuan fountain with dazzling jets shooting up to 150 feet in the air, making you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret wizard convention. Set in Grant Park, it's the perfect spot to pretend you're in a water-themed Cirque du Soleil performance or just to get delightfully drenched on a hot summer day.

www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

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14. Grant Park

Grant Park, Chicago, IL, USA

Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Chicago, Grant Park is a sprawling oasis bursting with vibrant sights and lively energy. Stroll through this urban haven, where the grass is as green as the envy of those unable to visit. Explore magnificent gardens that make even the most botanically-challenged feel like horticultural virtuosos, or marvel at the majestic Buckingham Fountain, a true masterpiece that never fails to make visitors grin from ear to ear.

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15. Willis Tower Skydeck

4.5 (26658)

233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA

Welcome to the Willis Tower Skydeck in the Windy City, a fantastically tall tower offering a bird's eye view of Chicago! Get ready to have your socks (and potentially other loose items) blown off by the breathtaking panoramic views! Don't worry, vertigo-prone travelers, there are glass boxes that protrude from the skyscraper, providing you with the unique opportunity to experience the thrill of beaming down from space, while simultaneously questioning your life choices.

theskydeck.com

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16. Lincoln Park Zoo

4.6 (28986)

Chicago, IL 60614, USA

Welcome to Lincoln Park Zoo in the heart of Chicago, where even the grumpiest of lions can't resist a selfie opportunity with tourists. Prepare to be awed by the majestic creatures that inhabit this urban jungle, while keeping an eye out for the monkeys who seem to have better fashion sense than most humans. Don't forget to visit the penguins, who put on a daily march that could rival any fashion runway - they're the hottest birds in town!

www.lpzoo.org

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17. Museum of Science and Industry

4.7 (25975)

5700 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, USA

Welcome to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, where history meets hilarity! Step inside and prepare to have your mind blown by a treasure trove of interactive exhibits that will make your brain cells dance with joy. From the wonderful world of space exploration to mind-boggling tours of coal mines, this museum promises a journey so delightful that even the stingiest of skeptics will crack a smile!

msichicago.org

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18. The Magnificent Mile

Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Welcome to the Magnificent Mile in Chicago, where the streets are as wide as someone's love for deep dish pizza. This bustling stretch of Michigan Avenue will leave you dazzled, just like your Uncle Jerry's questionable dance moves at weddings. Brace yourself for a shopping experience that will make your wallet tremble, as this mile boasts more luxury stores than you can count on all your fingers while attempting a tongue twister.

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19. Shedd Aquarium

4.6 (28667)

1200 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Nestled in the heart of the windy city, Shedd Aquarium is the underwater paradise that will have you swimming in marvel. Dive deep into the extraordinary world of aquatic life, where you'll meet more fish than you can shake a soggy sock at. Brace yourself for a fin-tastic adventure, complete with mesmerizing exhibits, playful dolphins, and a gift shop stocked to the gills with sea-inspired memorabilia.

www.sheddaquarium.org

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20. Michigan Avenue Bridge

Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, USA

Welcome to the Michigan Avenue Bridge in the magnificent city of Chicago! This architectural marvel, also known as the DuSable Bridge, spans the stunning Chicago River like a perfectly balanced tightrope walker. It provides a charming pathway for pedestrians, who gracefully navigate between towering buildings, fervent tourists, and the occasional pigeon with ninja-like precision.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chicago by plane is to fly into O'Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport, both of which are served by major airlines from most major cities in the world. You can check prices and schedules on websites like Expedia or Kayak.

Car

The best way to get to Chicago by car is to take one of the major highways, such as I-90 or I-94, which both run through the city. However, be aware of traffic congestion during peak travel times.

Train

The best way to get to Chicago by train is to take an Amtrak train, which connects the city to other major cities in the United States, such as New York, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles. The main train station in Chicago is Union Station.

Boat

The best way to get to Chicago by boat is to take a ferry from Navy Pier to locations such as Michigan City or St. Joseph. However, this mode of transportation is not as common as the others and may have limited availability depending on the season.

Bus

The best way to get to Chicago by bus is to take a Greyhound bus, which connects the city to most major cities in the United States. The main bus station in Chicago is the Greyhound Station.

More guides

Chicago on a Budget: The 5-Day Adventure

Exploring Chicago on a limited budget is possible with the city's many free attractions including Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in the city's hostels and Airbnb's located in the trendy neighborhoods of Wicker Park and Logan Square. Delicious local cuisine at affordable prices can also be found in the city's diverse dining scene ranging from deep-dish pizza to ethnic street food.

Chicago Adventures: 5 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

A family trip to Chicago offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and history. Start your adventure with a visit to famous attractions such as Millennium Park, where kids can explore the interactive Crown Fountain or take photos with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. Don't miss out on a fun-filled day at Navy Pier, where you can ride the Ferris wheel, enjoy live performances, and indulge in delicious food from various vendors.

Chicago in Four Days: A Budget Adventure.

Chicago is a vibrant and culturally-rich city located on the shores of Lake Michigan. For a budget-friendly trip, be sure to take advantage of free attractions such as the Lincoln Park Zoo and Millennium Park. Chicago is also known for its world-class cuisine, so be sure to sample the iconic deep-dish pizza and other cheap eats.

Three-day Romantic Getaway to Chicago.

Embark on a romantic getaway to Chicago, the Windy City and explore its stunning architecture, exciting nightlife and culinary scene. Take a stroll hand-in-hand down the Magnificent Mile, enjoy a sunset gondola ride on the Chicago River, and top off your evening with a romantic candlelit dinner at one of the city's top-rated restaurants. With its charm and elegance, Chicago is sure to ignite the romance in any couple.